Looking For a PWC-Free Fourth?

Published Date

June 26, 2006

So, you've got big plans for the Fourth of July, which, falling on a Tuesday this year, makes for a truly long weekend. But where should you head if you want to enjoy water but not the whine of personal watercraft?
You're in luck. I know of a few places, thanks to the Bluewater Network, the folks who think there are some places in this world -- such as national parks -- where PWCs should be banned.
Here are ten great places you can enjoy the Fourth without dodging PWCs:

1. Padre Island National Seashore: This patch of Texas waterfront contains one of the country's largest undeveloped barrier islands and is popular with wind surfers. As a bonus for nature lovers, it's also big with migratory birds and contains nesting grounds for endangered Kemp's Ridley sea turtles. PWCs are verboten.
2. Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area: I passed through the gap a time or two as a young backpacker on the AT. These days you can head there to hike, swim, boat, fish, kayak, tube, or just admire the scenery. Without PWCs.
3. San Juan Islands, Washington: My wife and I had a glorious vacation here, sea kayaking for part of the time, hunkering down in a cabin on Orcas Island part of the time. There's great road biking, as well as hiking, fishing, swimming, kayaking...and no Jet Skis thanks to the foresight of community leaders.
4. Biscayne National Park: Along Florida's coast, this park so far has managed to fend off the PWC community. Don't know how long that will be the case, but for now you can enjoy the sun, sand and surf without the stench of fumes or oil slicks.
5. San Francisco Bay Area: OK, I've never been there, so I'll just take Bluewater's recommendation for what it offers -- great sea life and beauty and no PWCs.
6. Kachemak Bay: Don't know how to pronounce it, but this slice of Alaska also manages to survive without the drone of Jet Skis. It's home to Alaska's first state park where you can pitch your tent or rent a cabin. Downside? You can't drive there, as it's only accessible by boat or float plane from nearby Homer.
7. Upper Missouri Breaks National Monument: Yeah, the name contains Missouri, but this place is in Montana. And it's a beaut, complete with a portion of the Upper Missouri National Wild and Scenic River and plenty of room for hiking, fishing, paddling and camping...and no PWCs.
8. Cape Hatteras National Seashore: Here you'll find some great surf-fishing, not to mention swimming, surfing and birding. And no PWCs.
9. Lake Willoughby, Vermont: Sandy beaches, great scenery, and pretty good fishing all are part of the package here. PWCs are not. They're banned.
10. Indiana Dunes National Lakeshore: Carved out of the Lake Michigan shoreline, this NPS unit offers swimming, cool breezes, fishing, camping and quiet. It does not offer Jet Skis.
There you have it. Have a great Fourth!

Support National Parks Traveler

Your support for the National Parks Traveler comes at a time when news organizations are finding it hard, if not impossible, to stay in business. Traveler's work is vital. For nearly two decades we've provided essential coverage of national parks and protected areas. With the Trump administration’s determination to downsize the federal government, and Interior Secretary Doug Burgum’s approach to public lands focused on energy exploration, it’s clear the Traveler will have much to cover in the months and years ahead. We know of no other news organization that provides such broad coverage of national parks and protected areas on a daily basis. Your support is greatly appreciated.

EIN: 26-2378789

Support Essential Coverage of Essential Places

A copy of National Parks Traveler's financial statements may be obtained by sending a stamped, self-addressed envelope to: National Parks Traveler, P.O. Box 980452, Park City, Utah 84098. National Parks Traveler was formed in the state of Utah for the purpose of informing and educating about national parks and protected areas.

Residents of the following states may obtain a copy of our financial and additional information as stated below:

Florida: A COPY OF THE OFFICIAL REGISTRATION AND FINANCIAL INFORMATION FOR NATIONAL PARKS TRAVELER, (REGISTRATION NO. CH 51659), MAY BE OBTAINED FROM THE DIVISION OF CONSUMER SERVICES BY CALLING 800-435-7352 OR VISITING THEIR WEBSITE. REGISTRATION DOES NOT IMPLY ENDORSEMENT, APPROVAL, OR RECOMMENDATION BY THE STATE.
Georgia: A full and fair description of the programs and financial statement summary of National Parks Traveler is available upon request at the office and phone number indicated above.
Maryland: Documents and information submitted under the Maryland Solicitations Act are also available, for the cost of postage and copies, from the Secretary of State, State House, Annapolis, MD 21401 (410-974-5534).
North Carolina: Financial information about this organization and a copy of its license are available from the State Solicitation Licensing Branch at 888-830-4989 or 919-807-2214. The license is not an endorsement by the State.
Pennsylvania: The official registration and financial information of National Parks Traveler may be obtained from the Pennsylvania Department of State by calling 800-732-0999. Registration does not imply endorsement.
Virginia: Financial statements are available from the Virginia Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services, 102 Governor Street, Richmond, Virginia 23219.
Washington: National Parks Traveler is registered with Washington State’s Charities Program as required by law and additional information is available by calling 800-332-4483 or visiting www.sos.wa.gov/charities, or on file at Charities Division, Office of the Secretary of State, State of Washington, Olympia, WA 98504.

Add comment

form.antibot { display: none !important; } You must have JavaScript enabled to use this form.

INN Member

The easiest way to explore RV-friendly National Park campgrounds.

The Essential RVing Guide to the National Parks

Here’s the definitive guide to National Park System campgrounds where RVers can park their rigs.

Our app is packed with RVing- specific details on more than 250 campgrounds in more than 70 national parks.

You’ll also find stories about RVing in the parks, tips helpful if you’ve just recently become an RVer, and useful planning suggestions.

The Essential RVing Guide to the National Parks